George Blanckensee, Director of Consumer Sales & Hospitality

An avid cook, gardener, and sports fan, he finds creative ways to share his interests with the Montelena team and their extended family.

As Director of Consumer Sales and Hospitality, George oversees all direct to consumer sales at the Chateau, events, guest experiences, and property grounds. A Bay Area native, George grew up in San Francisco before heading to Southern California, where he attended and graduated from the University of California, Irvine, with a degree in Political Science. While in school, he started working in the hotel business, where he stayed for over 20 years – most of which time was concentrated in the food and beverage operations at resorts in both Southern and Northern California, Florida, and Colorado.

George realized his passion for wine and entered the wine industry as opening General Manager for Press Club, a unique wine tasting venue in downtown San Francisco. With a long-time relationship with Chateau Montelena as a buyer and supporter, he eventually joined the team at Montelena as Director of Direct to Consumer Operations and Hospitality.

My friend and I visited while it was down pouring outside. They were very busy but still managed to help everyone enjoy tastings. We had the pleasure of having Sean do our tasting he was wonderful and very knowledgeable in the wines and history of the the Chateau. I was very impressed. This place is beautiful even on a rainy...